Summer is all about indulgence, celebration, and flavor-packed desserts that wow both in presentation and taste. Enter: Summer Black Forest Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs — a show-stopping treat that fuses the rich decadence of brownies, the nostalgic fun of cookie dough, and the bright, tangy sweetness of cherries all coated in silky chocolate. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, attending a summer potluck, or just looking for a make-ahead dessert that delights every single time, this recipe delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re the type who loves multi-textured desserts, these brownie bombs are going to be your new obsession. They’re:
- Fudgy, chewy, and creamy all at once
- Loaded with chocolate and cherry flavor
- Fun to assemble and serve
- Perfectly portioned for sharing (or not!)
- A no-bake summer treat (apart from baking the brownie base)
These bombs are ideal for chocolate lovers, cherry enthusiasts, and cookie dough connoisseurs. The combination of a gooey cherry center wrapped in edible cookie dough, then hugged by crumbled brownies and dipped in chocolate? Utter perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these brownie bombs to life:
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 (18 oz) box brownie mix
- Eggs, oil, and water (as listed on the box)
For the Cookie Dough Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (heat-treated)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- Maraschino cherries, patted dry (stems removed)
For Coating:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or candy melts
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
- Chocolate drizzle (optional)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13” baking pan
- Large mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula and spoon
- Food processor (optional but helpful for crumbling brownies)
- Parchment paper
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Baking tray for chilling
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Brownie Base
Prepare the brownie mix as directed on the box and bake it in a 9×13” pan. Allow the brownies to cool completely. Once cooled, crumble the brownies using your hands or a food processor until they resemble moist crumbs. Set aside.
Pro Tip: Fudgy brownies work best for this recipe because they help the bombs hold their shape better than cakier brownies.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Fold in the heat-treated flour (a must for safe raw cookie dough) and mix until a dough forms. Stir in mini chocolate chips. Chill the dough for about 10–15 minutes so it’s easier to handle.
Tip: To heat-treat flour at home, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes. Let cool before using.
3. Assemble the Bombs
Take a tablespoon of chilled cookie dough, flatten it slightly, and place either a maraschino cherry or a small spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center. Carefully roll it into a ball, encasing the cherry. Then, take some of the brownie crumbles and press them around the cookie dough ball to create a larger ball about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
Place the formed bombs on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm.
4. Coat in Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) until smooth. Dip each frozen bomb into the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift and gently tap off excess. Set them on the parchment-lined tray.
5. Decorate & Chill
Before the chocolate sets, top each bomb with a maraschino cherry or drizzle with extra melted chocolate for a bakery-style finish. Place the tray in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens completely.
Optional: Add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or edible glitter for a festive flair.
How to Store Leftovers
These brownie bombs store beautifully:
- Refrigerator: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Want to make them ahead? Freeze them for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Note: If topping with fresh maraschino cherries, they may weep slightly over time, so it’s best to add them just before serving.
Flavor Variations & Recipe Swaps
Feel like getting creative? Here are a few variations you can try:
- White Forest Bombs: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate coating and use white chocolate chips in the cookie dough.
- Nutty Bombs: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie crumbles for a crunchier exterior.
- Dark Cherry Spice: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough for a cozy flavor twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free brownie mix and flour in the cookie dough.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, egg replacer for the brownie mix, and vegan chocolate chips.
What to Serve with Black Forest Brownie Bombs
Pair these decadent treats with:
- Iced coffee or cold brew for a bold contrast
- Sparkling cherry soda or cream soda for a fun summer vibe
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream if serving as a plated dessert
- A glass of Port wine or Cabernet Sauvignon for adult gatherings
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you have a go-to homemade brownie recipe, use it. Just make sure it yields a fudgy texture for better molding.
How do I prevent the cookie dough from sticking to my hands?
Chilling the dough helps, but if it’s still sticky, lightly coat your hands with flour or wear food-safe gloves.
Can I make these nut-free?
Yes! This recipe doesn’t contain nuts unless you add them as a variation. Just double-check all your ingredients to ensure they’re processed in nut-free facilities if you’re serving someone with allergies.
Is heat-treating flour really necessary?
Yes! Raw flour can carry harmful bacteria. Always heat-treat it before using in no-bake recipes.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Frozen cherries don’t work as well in the center due to their moisture content. Stick with canned pie filling or maraschino cherries for best results.
Final Thoughts + Call to Action
These Summer Black Forest Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs are more than just a dessert — they’re a flavor explosion wrapped in nostalgia and decadence. Perfect for summer events or whenever you need a chocolate fix with a cherry on top (literally), this recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat.
If you loved this recipe, share it with your fellow dessert lovers, post a photo of your creation on social media, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more seasonal sweets, clever kitchen tips, and unforgettable flavor combinations.
Happy baking — and happy summer! 🍒🍫